DB&B, renowned for creating exceptional workplace environments, took on the challenge of designing the national headquarters for GUANGJI Law Firm. The objective was to create an office space that reflects the firm’s youthful culture while adhering to its vision, cultural values, and functional goals. This case study highlights how DB&B successfully integrated youthful design elements, flexibility, employee wellness, and sustainability into the new office space.
Design Concept
YOUTHFUL AND DYNAMIC AESTHETIC
DB&B’s design team aimed to infuse the office space with youthful motifs and materials subtly. By incorporating vibrant colors and modern design elements, the space exudes an energetic and innovative atmosphere. The overall design and color palette align with the company’s dynamic culture, ensuring that the office is not only functional but also inspiring.
FLEXIBLE OFFICE SPACE
The reception area of GUANGJI Law Firm welcomes employees and visitors with various workspaces. These versatile areas serve dual purposes as waiting areas for guests and open spaces for discussion and work. Activity-based workspaces are strategically placed throughout the floor to accommodate different work styles.
SMALL GATHERING SPACES, CUBICLES & COLLABORATIVE WORKSPACES
Both private and semi-private areas are available for team collaboration. Quiet cubicles are designed for focused work, ensuring minimal distractions. Meeting rooms are equipped with conferencing systems to facilitate remote communication. Located along the perimeter, collaborative workspaces offer unobstructed views and ample natural light through full-height windows.
Employee Wellness
BIOPHILIC DESIGN ELEMENTS
To promote employee wellness, biological elements are integrated throughout the office space. Potted plants and hanging plants bring the outdoors in and enhance the aesthetic appeal. Acoustic panels are specially add-on to the decor, improving sound quality.
UNIQUE DISCUSSION SPACES
Creative discussion areas with a childlike feel, such as swinging seats, are designed to foster informal conversations and brainstorming sessions. Special attention is given to female partners with offices featuring a feminine touch, a wellness room, and a mother’s room for breastfeeding mothers.
WARM AND INVITING ATMOSPHERE
The overall warm color palette complements the wood grain flooring, creating a cozy and welcoming environment. This thoughtful design ensures that the office space feels inviting and comfortable for all employees.
Design Optimization and Challenges
BALANCING MODERN DESIGN WITH BUILDING CONSTRAINTS
DB&B faced the challenge of subverting the traditional office model of law firms and defining a youthful concept within the constraints of the existing building structure. The existing curtain wall and ceiling structure could not be modified, requiring the design team to optimize their approach to achieve the desired effect without compromising the integrity of the building.
Sustainability Initiatives
ECO-FRIENDLY MATERIALS AND SMART TECHNOLOGY
Sustainability was a key guiding principle in the office design, aligning with GUANGJI Law Firm’s values. The design incorporated smart energy-efficient lighting controlled by motion sensors to reduce energy consumption, use of eco-friendly materials including sustainable carpeting, vinyl flooring, wall tiles, and acoustic panels. Recycling bins have been built into cabinets for easy access and waste separation, promoting recycling practices.
Conclusion
DB&B successfully transformed GUANGJI Law Firm’s national headquarters into a space that embodies youthfulness, flexibility, and sustainability. By addressing the company’s vision, cultural values, and functional goals, DB&B created an office environment that supports various work styles, promotes employee wellness, and adheres to stringent green initiatives. The result is a modern, vibrant, and eco-friendly office that stands as a testament to DB&B’s design expertise.
